Rural suicide figures continue to be ‘quite disturbing’ in Galway
THE ongoing problem of rural suicides in the East Galway area has prompted the holding of a special three hour training programme next week in Ballinasloe, aimed at putting the first steps in place to save lives.
SafeTALK is aimed at the early identification of persons with suicidal thoughts by providing neighbours, friends or relatives of a person at risk, with a series of tell-tale signs that they should be aware of.
The training programme – in Gullane’s Hotel, Ballinasloe, from 6pm to 9.30pm on the Thursday evening of October 24 next – is aimed at people from all walks of life.
“Our appeal is to people from all walks of life, sports clubs, the business community, carers, those working with young people and anyone else interested – the aim is to build a better network of support,” safeTALK state.
Maura Canning, of the IFA Farm Family Committee and the GELS (Galway East Life Support) group, told the Farming Tribune that the figures for suicides over recent months continued to be quite disturbing.
“It seems to be primarily a male problem in rural area but the age brackets can vary from the 20s up to the 50s. Trying to tackle this problem is not easy, but we must start somewhere, and talking is a vital first step,” said Maura Canning.
She has advised people to be aware of some of the critical indications of someone who may be depressed and who could be at risk of suicide – the SIGNS mnemonic is a handy guide in spotting ‘at risk’ individuals.
S: Sleep disruption and overall difficulty in getting sufficient sleep.
I: Isolation – people who live on their own with little contact are a high risk.
G: Giving away special possessions such as a dog or a favourite picture.
N: No interest in things that a person might have cared dearly for previously.
S: Seeing no future. Phrases to watch for: “I don’t care anymore,” or “What’s the point.”
Next week’s training programme in Gullanes is free to all who are interested but places are limited and pre-booking is essential. To book a place contact: [email protected] or alternatively phone GELS at 085-1237878.
According to safeTALK, anyone who completes the training workshop, will find it easier to identify people who could be at risk of suicide – these specific skills are called ‘suicide alertness’.
“Following a safeTALK Workshop, you will be more willing and able to perform an important role for persons with thoughts of suicide,” safeTALKS state.
The training is open to anyone over the age of 18 years, although it is not recommended for anyone who has been affected by a recent loss to suicide.
According to Maura Canning, there can be a build-up of problems in people’s lives that haven’t been dealt with. “Then one more thing happens, like a farmer going out into the fields and finding a cow dead – this is like a last straw that sends them over the edge. But things are changing and people are beginning to talk more about themselves and their problems,” she said.